Walking Ability and Fear of Falling in Parkinson's Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Maria H. Nilsson, Gun-Marie Hariz, Susanne Iwarsson, Peter Hagell
Primary Institution: Lund University
Hypothesis
What factors contribute to fear of falling in people with Parkinson's disease?
Conclusion
Walking difficulties are the primary contributor to fear of falling in people with Parkinson's disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Walking difficulties explained 68% of the variance in fear of falling scores.
- Fatigue, turning hesitations, and needing help in daily activities were also significant factors.
- 76% of participants reported balance problems.
Takeaway
People with Parkinson's disease are often scared of falling, and this fear is mostly caused by how well they can walk.
Methodology
Data were collected through a postal survey including the Falls Efficacy Scale from 154 nondemented people with Parkinson's disease.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reporting and the sample being drawn from a university clinic.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data and had a relatively low response rate of 68%.
Participant Demographics
154 participants, 39% women, mean age 70 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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